Hi everyone! My name is Mario and I am a registered attendee for Safety 2017.

About me

I live in Albuquerque, New Mexico with my beautiful wife, Lauren and our three dogs. I’m the Corporate Safety Manager at Souder, Miller & Associates and have been in my position going on three years. When I’m not working; I enjoy reading, traveling, lifting weights and being outdoors.

I graduated from the University of Mexico and look to begin my masters program next year.

How I got into safety

I first knew I wanted to be a safety professional when I was working as an on-site EMT during the construction of a hotel in Albuquerque. I shared an office with the safety manager and gained a small insight to his day-to-day activities. This obviously sparked an interest. Coincidently my uncle Zef Banda, a well-known safety professional at Banda Group International, asked if this was a career field I would want to pursue. During my last semester of college, I began interning with the company and so began my career in 2008.

While I shadowed numerous safety professionals on various projects throughout the country, my first assignment was at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Where I worked as a contractor for several years. Here I met and worked with some extraordinary individuals who really taught me about the safety profession.

My Involvement with ASSE

I have been a member since 2014. I am also a member of my local ASSE New Mexico Chapter, where I serve as Treasurer. Since getting involved with my Chapter, I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing individuals, who truly care about promoting safety. I highly encourage others to get involved in their local Chapters and explore the opportunities of networking and getting to know likeminded individuals.

The opportunities for learning and attending various conferences, like the Annual PDC and SeminarFest, are extremely invaluable. I regularly check the ASSE website to learn of upcoming courses or current events.

Annual conference

I'm excited for this years’ conference, as it will be my third time attending. I strongly encourage younger safety professionals to take advantage of attending these conferences as you'll find them extremely valuable. I have been able to reconnect with former coworkers and make new connections, while attending sessions on topics that pertain to my scope of work. I have always been able to take useful tools back to my employer and incorporate into our safety program.

I appreciate you take time to learn more about me. Hopefully, we'll cross paths in Denver. Until then, please be sure to check out my social media accounts.